zinke secretary of the interior
Flickr / U.S. Dept of the Interior

On His First Day on the Job, Secretary Zinke Expands Access to Public Lands

Orders have been signed to strengthen America's outdoor opportunities.

He also did it on his first day on the job. The new Department of the Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke has signed two secretarial orders to expand access to public lands. The orders functioned to support hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities.

"Outdoor recreation is about our heritage and our economy. Between hunting, fishing, motorized recreation, camping and more, the industry generates thousands of jobs and billions of dollars in economic activity," says Secretary Zinke, echoing the sentiments of almost anyone who participates in these activities.

Order Number 3346  is the revocation of the Fish and Wildlife Service Director's Order No. 219, which banned Nontoxic and fishing tackle. It also highlights the need for additional review of the lead ban.

Order Number 3347 advances conservation stewardship of federal lands for the benefit of current and future generations. In short, it aims to enhance conservation stewardship, increase outdoor recreation, and improve management of game and their habitat.

The background of the second order recognizes the improvements made by anglers, hunters, and conservation movements, with a focus on strengthening this relationship with the various recreational non-profits. Additionally, the secretary will continue to receive recommendations from Wildlife and Hunting Heritage Conservation Council and the Sport Fishing and Boating Partnership Council.

I think I speak for everyone when I say that this is great to hear. This is uplifting news in the wake of the many stories of public land sales and is a definite step in the right direction for all outdoor sports.

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